Kimetto, who won marathons in Tokyo and Chicago last year, had promised to attack the record in Berlin if conditions allowed.

And in weather perfect for long-distance running, with temperatures around eight degrees centigrade, Kimetto kept his promise, staying in the lead group throughout and sprinting to victory and a new world's best time.

Mutai, meanwhile, believes a two-hour marathon is possible.

"From what I saw today, times are coming down and down. So if not today, then tomorrow," the 29-year-old Kenyan said. "Maybe next time we'll get 2:01."

Scott Overall was the top British athlete in the men's race, finishing 14th in 2:13:00.

Britain's Shelly Woods won the women's wheelchair race as she continues her preparation for November's New York Marathon.